1998 Ford Mustang vs. 2008 Ford Focus
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Mustang (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Mustang weights approximately 28 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Ford Mustang is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Ford Focus (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Mustang. (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Mustang | 2008 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Mustang | Focus |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
